Proefschrift
The material side of the energy transition: analyzing flows and stocks of critical and other metals
The expanding population and economic activity are driving up global energy consumption. Simultaneously, there is an urgent need to transition from fossil fuels to renewable sources to mitigate the climate crisis, primarily caused by fossil fuel combustion.
- Auteur
- Y. Liang
- Datum
- 19 september 2024
- Links
- Thesis in Leiden Repository
This shift increases the demand for materials related to low-carbon energy technologies. This thesis addresses the material challenges of the energy transition through dynamic material flow and scenario analysis, quantifying the material requirements, stocks, and waste generation of global energy systems. It includes critical and other materials and examines these factors under various climate scenarios. Additionally, it explores different circular economy strategies, including lifetime extension and recycling, to address the material challenges of the global energy transition. By analyzing material stocks and requirements, this research provides insights into sustainable strategies to meet the increasing material demands while supporting climate goals, highlighting the importance of effective material management in the shift to renewable energy.